Trump Administration Reveals Decision to Select Pool Reporters

For many years, a group of D.C.-based journalists known as the White House Correspondents’ Association has controlled which journalists have the opportunity to question the president in these significant settings. That changes today. I am pleased to inform you that we will be transferring this power back to the citizens who read your publications, watch your broadcasts, and listen to your radio shows. Going forward, the White House press pool will be curated by the White House press team. Established outlets that have been part of the press pool for many years will still be permitted to participate — no need for concern. However, we will also extend this privilege to deserving outlets that have not had the chance to share in this important role. Similar to how we added a new media seat in this briefing room, long-standing media organizations will continue their role in the pool, but fresh voices will also be embraced. A small group of D.C.-based journalists should no longer hold exclusive rights to press access at the White House. Every journalist, outlet, and perspective deserves a place at this valuable table. Therefore, by selecting which outlets comprise the limited press pool on a daily basis, the White House will be returning power to the American people whom President Trump was elected to represent.